A swimming pond for seals was at the heart of Westbury Wildlife Park when it originally opened in 1963. Abandoned for over 25 years, however, the park finally reopened in 2021, and now the pond has been transformed, too. With Bristol’s recent love-affair with saunas and outdoor swimming, there’s nowhere hotter (or cooler) than Fire and Ice Wellness right now.
While Westbury Wildlife Park continues to revitalise itself as a space for the local community and wildlife, it also offers ‘Bristol’s first sauna and natural cold plunge pool’—with all the health benefits of cold therapy. There are already a few authentic Finnish saunas, including one at Windmill Hill City Farm, but Fire and Ice Wellness has set itself apart since the opening in March.
Firstly, you can take an invigorating dip in the spring-fed, freshwater (and former home of seals) bathing pond. It’s only small, so you won’t be doing laps for very long, but there’s still plenty of room to stretch your limbs for a short swim. Afterwards, warm up inside the spacious, wood-fired sauna, and soak in the stunning sights of the surrounding nature.
What are the health benefits of cold water therapy?
It’s said that the deep heat of a sauna can help with muscle relaxation, joint pain, high stress levels, and cardiovascular health. Meanwhile, the cold plunge pool can help boost circulation, energy levels, and muscle repair, as well as reduce inflammation and sharpen mental clarity. Together, they can offer a transformative experience.
How much does it cost?
An hour’s session at Fire and Ice Wellness costs £17.50 per person, but you can save a lot of money by signing up as a member. For £50 to £60 per month, choose between 4 or 8 sessions per month. Alternatively, hire the whole sauna and pond yourself for £120—fitting up to 8 people.
📍 Westbury Wildlife Park, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3ET
🌐 To learn more about Fire and Ice Wellness head here